A major UK holiday provider has pledged to offer same-day refunds to travellers whose flights are cancelled, as the industry braces for potential summer disruption. On the Beach, a leading online travel agent, has committed to processing refunds immediately for customers whose flights are cancelled as part of its package-wide "Cancelled Flight Cover" policy. The company stated that if a flight is cancelled, it will either find an alternative flight or provide a full refund for the entire holiday, processed on the same day.
Details of the Policy
On the Beach's new policy ensures that customers whose flights are cancelled will have their refunds processed immediately, allowing them to book alternative travel plans without delay. However, the company noted that the speed of the refund reaching the customer's account will depend on individual bank policies. This move comes as airlines across Europe are reducing schedules due to rising fuel costs linked to the conflict in the Middle East.
Under existing air passengers' rights rules, travellers departing from the UK or the EU, or flying on British or European airlines from anywhere in the world, are already entitled to be re-routed to their destination as close to the original schedule as possible, on any airline with available seats. They are also entitled to meals and accommodation if there is a significant delay.
Industry Context
The UK Department for Transport (DfT) stated: "While UK airlines say they are not currently facing supply issues, the government will be consulting with the industry in order to act quickly if needs be, before disruption takes hold, giving passengers and the aviation sector the certainty they need to plan ahead." According to On the Beach, refunds from other suppliers can take up to 14 days, making their new policy a significant improvement for customers.
Caspar Nelson, holiday expert at On the Beach, said: "Holidaymakers deserve certainty, especially when disruption strikes. We’re proud to be the first package holiday provider to commit to same-day refund processing for cancelled flights, giving customers the confidence to book knowing we’ve got their back when it matters most. If the worst happens and a flight is cancelled, we’ll move quickly to either find a new route or return every penny of their holiday money that same day, so they can get a new break booked, make alternative plans fast, and get back to looking forward to their summer instead of worrying about it."
Expert Opinion
Simon Calder, travel correspondent of The Independent, commented: "I’m all in favour of companies issuing faster refunds to travellers. But it remains the case that we want our holidays – not our money back. If any flight is cancelled within Europe this summer it is down to the airline – possibly with the help of a travel agent – to find a suitable alternative."
Read more: Could your summer holiday be in peril due to a jet fuel crisis?
